At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve nutritious meals while supporting pupils' wellbeing and school events.
- Company: Join a supportive and friendly school community at Arc School Napton.
- Benefits: Enjoy health programmes, discounts, and a cycle to work scheme.
- Other info: Fixed-term role with ongoing training and development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives through nutritious food.
- Qualifications: Experience in catering and strong knowledge of food hygiene required.
The predicted salary is between 23868 - 25434 £ per year.
Salary: £23,868.00 to £25,434 Depending on experience
Closing Date: 14/06/2026
Job Type: Fixed Term - Mat Cover - Full Time
Are you passionate about nutritious food and supporting pupils’ wellbeing? We’re looking for a caring, energetic, and committed School Chef/Cook to join our fantastic team! Please note that this position is for maternity cover on a fixed‑term contract from September 2026 until July 2027, though an earlier start may be available for the successful candidate. The role is term time only, working Monday to Friday, 7am to 3pm.
What you’ll be doing:
- Prepare and serve nutritious meals, drinks and snacks meeting pupils’ cultural and dietary needs
- Provide daily catering and support school events and special functions
- Maintain excellent food hygiene, cleanliness, and health & safety standards
- Manage food ordering, stock control and work within an agreed budget
- Support pupil wellbeing, learning activities, and safeguarding policies
What we’re looking for:
- A team player who will uphold the mission, values and goals of Arc School Napton
- Strong knowledge of food hygiene, health and safety, and dietary requirements
- Experience working in catering or a similar role (school or education setting desirable)
- Strong organisational skills and ability to manage budgets and stock
Why work for us:
- Supportive and friendly school community
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- A rewarding role where you’ll make a real impact!
Benefits:
- Access to health and well-being programmes, including a free and confidential 24/7 helpline and counselling service
- Discounts on retail, travel, and leisure through our benefits platform
- Cycle to work scheme
We are committed to safeguarding and protecting children and we expect all colleagues to share this commitment. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020 and is subject to a range of vetting checks including a criminal records disclosure. We are a disability confident committed and equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from all sections of the community.
School Chef employer: Kedleston Group Limited
At Arc School Napton, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and friendly school community where our School Chef plays a vital role in promoting pupil wellbeing through nutritious meals. With ongoing training and development opportunities, as well as access to health and well-being programmes, we ensure that our employees feel valued and empowered to make a real impact in the lives of our students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Arc School Napton and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff if you can. They can provide insider tips on what the school is really like and what they value in a School Chef. Plus, it might just give you a leg up in the application process!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! As a School Chef, you might be asked to demonstrate your cooking skills or how you handle dietary requirements. Brush up on your culinary techniques and be ready to showcase your creativity.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and keen to engage with the school directly.
We think you need these skills to ace School Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for nutritious food and supporting pupils' wellbeing right from the start. Share any relevant experiences or personal stories that highlight your commitment to these values.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the School Chef role. Mention your knowledge of food hygiene, health and safety, and any experience in catering, especially in a school setting.
Highlight Teamwork Skills:We’re looking for a team player! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with others and how you can contribute to our supportive school community. Share examples of successful teamwork in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kedleston Group Limited
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the nutritional needs of pupils and how to cater to various dietary requirements. Be ready to discuss specific meals you've prepared that meet these needs, showcasing your knowledge and passion for nutritious food.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
As a School Chef, being a team player is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've collaborated with others in previous roles, especially in a school or catering environment. Highlight your ability to support school events and work harmoniously with staff and pupils.
✨Master Food Hygiene Standards
Brush up on food hygiene, health and safety regulations, and be prepared to discuss how you maintain these standards in your kitchen. You might even want to bring up any relevant certifications you hold to demonstrate your commitment to safety.
✨Budgeting Brilliance
Since managing budgets and stock control is part of the role, think of examples where you've successfully managed resources in the past. Be ready to explain how you can keep costs down while still providing high-quality meals.
